DNA integrity as a biomarker of marine pollution: Strand breaks in seastar (Asterias rubens) and dab (Limanda limanda)

DNA strand breaks in seastars and dab were measured by the time-dependent partial alkaline unwinding of DNA followed by the determination of the double-stranded to total DNA ratio (F-value). Highest DNA integrity (0.75 < F < 0.85) was found in seastars from offshore reference sites, whereas lowest integrity (0.35 < F < 0.55) was identified in specimens from the coastal zone and certain expected uncontaminated offshore areas. A significant correlation existed between the fraction of double-stranded DNA and the concentration of low chlorinated biphenyl congeners and with H atoms substituted in the meta and para position of the biphenyl skeleton. Over 90% of double-stranded DNA was measured in dab obtained from pristine areas, with an average F-value in specimens from most sampling stations varying from 0.75 to 0.85, during August/September 1991. Samples taken in May/June 1992 showed significantly lower DNA integrity (0.55 < F < 0.70 in most stations). A significant decrease of the integrity was established with increase in concentration of the congeners (tri to hepta chloro substituted and with or without a H atom substituted in the meta and para position).